By Ultan Corcoran@UltanCorcoran

Official: Heintz departs 1. FC Köln for rivals Fortuna Düsseldorf

The experienced defender has committed to helping Fortuna Düsseldorf in trying to get out of the third division next season.

Photo: Christof Koepsel/Getty Images.

Fortuna Düsseldorf have confirmed the signing of Dominique Heintz on a free transfer after his contract with 1.FC Köln expired.

Receiving a contract until 2028, the 32-year-old central defender will wear the No.3 jersey in the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia.

In his career to date, Heintz has played 220 Bundesliga matches and a further 91 games in the 2. Bundesliga.

Heintz has also previously represented 1.FC Kaiserslautern, 1.FC Köln, SC Freiburg, Union Berlin and VfL Bochum to date.

“Dominique comes to Düsseldorf with the experience of more than 200 Bundesliga matches and has indicated to us in our discussions that he is very keen to take on the challenge at Fortuna.

“He not only brings enormous strength in tackles and in the air, but also has qualities in playmaking and strong leadership qualities,” said Samir Arabi, F95 sporting director.